How Andrew Nwabueze, owner of Chessons Accountants in Sydenham is supporting local businesses during COVID-19

What was it like setting up a business in Lewisham?

One of my business objectives is to support Black, Asian and multi ethnic business owners, which is why I set up my business in Sydenham nearly three years ago. Lewisham is a culturally diverse borough with a lot of small businesses. This is the client base that I want to support, so it’s a good location for me.

How has the Council supported your business during COVID-19?

I received a small business grant from Lewisham Council which helped towards my business expenses, especially during lockdown when I wasn’t able to operate in the usual way.

The Council’s business team have been extremely helpful. They’ve provided me with up to date information and guidance so I can give the right advice to my clients. Someone is always available to answer my questions and there is lots of information on the Council website.

How has COVID-19 affected your business?

Part of my business model is to offer a face to face personalised service so it was very important to me to be able to continue supporting my clients throughout the pandemic. During lockdown I was able to still advice my clients from home using zoom.

In some ways my services have been more in demand during the pandemic. The small businesses that I work with still have to meet their accounting deadlines, and many have needed additional help with applying for the grants and funding available to businesses which will help them through this difficult and uncertain time.

How have you had to adapt your business?

I’ve opened the office so I can see clients face to face again while adhering to the latest COVID-19 protocols. But if people prefer, I still conduct meetings via zoom.

Many small businesses are already struggling financially and I’m sure there are more challenging times to come. Some companies may still go into liquidation so I offer as much advice and support as I can. I want the local business community to grow and expand so I charge discounted fees at a time like this when businesses are vulnerable. I’ve also been giving free initial consultations to new clients to help them in these difficult times.

What are your plans for the future?

I would like to expand the business and I’m also looking into ways I can mentor accountancy students. I would like to be able to provide work experience to help young people who are in the early stages of their career. But I will have to see how things go with the pandemic.